Gardai investigating the disappearance of Jastine Valdez believe that she was abducted by a lone male driving a black Nissan Qashqai.

The alarm was raised at 6.15pm yesterday evening when a woman and her son witnessed the abduction taking place on the R760 in Enniskerry .

A full search operation has been launched by gardai, with the Air Support Unit involved while gardai will also be receiving assistance from the Civil Defense.

Jastine's mobile phone was found near the scene from where she was abducted.

A Garda at the R760, Lovers Leap Lane, just outside Enniskerry during the search for missing woman Jastine Valdez.
Photo: Tony Gavin

Members of the garda Technical Bureau have been carrying out extensive searches of the R760 as part of the investigation.

Gardai have identified a person who had access to the vehicle involved, but have not yet been able to locate him.

Stock image of black Nissan Qashqai

Investigating detectives are currently examining a number of possible sightings of the vehicle since the abduction took place, including reports of a woman in distress in the rear of a dark coloured Nissan in south Dublin.

The public have been warned not to approach the vehicle if it is spotted - but to immediately call 999.

She was last seen when she left her home yesterday - and was reported missing by her family at 11.20pm last night.

It is understood that Jastine, who is studying accountancy at IT Carlow, is very close to her family, who are now extremely concerned.

A Garda waves through members of the Garda Divional Search Team at the R760, Lovers Leap Lane, just outside Enniskerry during the search for missing woman Jastine Valdez.
Photo: Tony Gavin

Gardai have said that they are investing a large number of resources into the investigation of the missing woman.

A case conference has been held by investigators and Gardaí are liaising closely with Jastine's family.

Jastine has been described as approximately 5ft in height, of slight build with long black hair and brown eyes.

When last seen she was wearing a dark coloured jacket, white t-shirt, grey leggings and runners.

The scene on the R760 is currently preserved and local traffic diversions are in place.

Gardaí are appealing for anyone with information in relation to the disappearance of the young woman to contact them.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Bray Garda Station 01-6665300 the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.